The federation president stated that national athletes among the disabled and injured have, through their successes in competitions, become inspiring and influential figures worldwide.
According to the Public Relations of the Federation, Dr. KoohpayeZadeh emphasized in a specialized meeting at the Ministry of Sports and Youth that the Islamic Solidarity Games will include only two Paralympic sports disciplines: athletics and weightlifting. To enhance the preparation of the national para-athletics team, training camps need to be held in a centralized manner. He expressed hope that with the ministry’s support, a stadium will be made available for para-athletics training.
He added that in various sports, the preparation of national athletes requires the provision of equipment and facilities, hoping that with the support of the minister and attracting sponsors, these needs will be met and the equipment will be provided to athletes.
Regarding the federation’s initiatives in using artificial intelligence and technology, Dr. KoohpayeZadeh said that to utilize AI for the development of disabled sports, reliable data is essential. Accordingly, an online registration system has been launched to register athletes, coaches, and referees. The federation is also working on launching a talent identification and classification system, allowing persons with disabilities in every province and county to register their information (type of disability, preferred sport, etc.). By integrating this data with AI, a new step will be taken toward advancing disabled sports and increasing the readiness of national athletes.
Concerning the federation’s performance related to the Nagoya Para-Asian Games, he noted that talent identification and capacity discovery were among the ministry’s approved actions. The federation seriously began work by establishing a talent identification and student committee. To develop women’s sports, the federation formed a women’s 3×3 wheelchair basketball national team and launched women’s five-a-side football. Besides national team camps, electronic health files were created for athletes to monitor their physical, psychological, and nutritional status, ensuring proper care.
In conclusion, Dr. KoohpayeZadeh said that today, through success at domestic and international competitions, disabled athletes have proven that sports for the disabled and injured can be productive and inspiring for society and even the world, transforming them into influential social figures.
